Rent Reduction Procedure
Columbia Housing is waiving its operational policies regarding rent reductions for families that have suffered the loss of employment as the result of business closings related to the COVID-19 protocols.
During the COVID-19 crisis, we are allowing residents to self-certify and waiving the verification requirement. Public Housing Residents and Housing Choice Voucher participants may now more easily report loss of income through one of the following methods:
1. Complete a fillable form:
OR
2. Send an e-mail to covid19@columbiahousingsc.org
OR
3. Call 803-251-2747 and verbally report the loss of income.
Tenant rent changes resulting from a reduction in income will be retroactive to effective the first day of the month following the date of loss of employment.
Columbia Housing recognizes the increased challenges facing the families we serve and want to reassure the community that we are implementing every option available within the HUD regulatory confines to ease the burden on our families.
*Updated March 26, 2020
Columbia Housing rent reduction policy waiver - effective March 25, 2020
Current Policy during Covid-19 Crisis
Income reduced on or after March 25, 2020
Rent reduction now effective
1st Day of the Month Following The Income Change
Example:
- Ms. Jones has her hours reduced because of lack of work on April 8, 2020.
- Once the change of income request has been processed, her new rent will be effective on May 1, 2020.
Pre-COVID-19 Policy
Income reduced on or after March 25, 2020
Rent reduction effective
1st Day of the 2nd Month After Income Change
Example:
- Ms. Jones has her hours reduced because of lack of work on April 8, 2020.
- Once the change of income request has been processed, her new rent would be effective on June 1, 2020.
This is a temporary policy waiver in effect until further notice.
